Imaginations cover

Imaginations

Molly Nilsson · 2017

44 min · 12 tracks · synth-pop

A lush tapestry of synth-pop melodies intertwined with introspective lyrics and a touch of melancholy.

Top tracks — play these first

  • →
    Let’s Talk About Privileges — This track stands out with its sharp commentary on social dynamics, pairing catchy synth hooks with incisive lyrics that provoke thought about privilege and inequality.
  • →
    Mona-Lisa’s Smile — With its haunting melody and introspective lyrics, this song encapsulates the struggle between personal identity and societal expectations, making it emblematic of Nilsson's artistic voice.
  • →
    Not Today Satan — This track delivers an empowering message wrapped in infectious beats, highlighting Nilsson's ability to blend humor with vulnerability in her songwriting.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

AI-generated from five scored dimensions. An opinion, not a measurement.

64 /100
Treeline
Higher than 79% of albums we've rated

The album showcases strong songwriting and production, with a cohesive flow that evolves from upbeat to introspective.

What we noticed

  • The first half of the album features upbeat tracks that gradually shift to more introspective themes in the latter half.
  • Several songs utilize layered synths and vocal harmonies, creating a dense soundscape that enhances the lyrical content.
  • The track 'Money Never Dreams' employs a contrasting tempo change midway through, which alters the emotional tone of the song.
Composition 25% of the score
7/10

the writing — melody, harmony, structure, lyrics

Craft 20% of the score
8/10

production, performance, arrangement

Durability 25% of the score
6/10

whether it rewards returning to it

Distinctiveness 18% of the score
8/10

whether it sounds like itself

Sequencing 12% of the score
7/10

running order, pacing, length

Influence 4/10

Known within its scene. Reported but not counted — how far a record travelled describes its reception rather than the record, and a newer release has had less time to travel than an older one.

Is this for you?

Good fit if you like

  • steady, consistent mid-tempo flow
  • dreamlike soundscapes for reflection
  • introspective listening moments
  • gradual builds and payoffs

Where this album fits

Career context
By the time 'Imaginations' was released in 2017, Molly Nilsson had established herself as a prominent figure in the DIY synth-pop scene, following her 2014 album 'Zenith'. This album marked an evolution in her sound, showcasing more polished production while retaining her signature emotional depth.
Stylistic neighbors
Nite Jewel· Grimes· Cold Cave

Tracklist

Best experienced from track one — press play and let it unfold.

  • 1 Tender Surrender 3:58
  • 2 Let’s Talk About Privileges 4:03
  • 3 Mona-Lisa’s Smile 3:10
  • 4 Memory Foam 3:45
  • 5 American Express 4:34
  • 6 Money Never Dreams 3:09
  • 7 Not Today Satan 4:23
  • 8 Think Pink 3:22
  • 9 Modern World 2:46
  • 10 Inner Cities 3:58
  • 11 Theory of Life 3:43
  • 12 After Life 3:34

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata